After losing a late fourth quarter lead last game, the Celtics were able to keep their composure and close out game four, 101-85, thus securing a 3-2 lead in their series with the Philadelphia 76ers.

If there was any question before Wednesday as to who is the better team in this matchup, there is not one now.  After splitting the first four games of the series, the Celtics stomped the Philadephia 76ers, 101-85.

An encouraging sign for a Celtics team that has seen flashes of brilliance from most of their stars at one point or another, but never at the same time, was the plethora of scoring options available in game five.  Rajon Rondo (13 points 14 assists), Paul Pierce (16 points), and Kevin Garnett (20 points) all finished the game with some impressive stat lines,but perhaps the most impressive was the season-high 27 points from Brandon Bass. Perhaps the most startling stat for the Celtics: 10 turnovers. Now that’s a stat that will help a team go far in the playoffs.  By going to Bass early on the Celtics were able to storm ahead with ease.

As for the Sixers, they simply didn’t take high percentage shots.  To many perimeter shots, which they did not hit, put them in a hole early and they never recovered.  If they had driven to the basket more, a Celtic squad that struggles with rebounding would have had a tough time competing in the paint.  Despite this, there were bright spots for the 76ers. Elton Brand had 19 points of his own.

Next game is on Wednesday in Philadelphia.  Look for the 76ers to fight for their lives, as the Celtics look to put the Sixers on the golf course for the year and the 76ers fight to even up the series at three games apiece and force a game seven.